Good evening. Let me start by thanking the Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, for your warm welcome here in Dublin today, and for hosting today’s Summit of the European Political Community. The search for a just lasting peace in Ukraine was the central theme of today’s discussions. Here is why it is important to recall Europe’s priorities in the ongoing negotiations. They are clear and they remain unchanged: - first, reaching a ceasefire
- second, reestablishing navigation in the Black Sea
- third, creating the conditions for a peace agreement
The fact is that, so far, there has been limited concrete progress in that direction. Because, so far, Russia continues to be focussed on escalating the war. It has yet to demonstrate that it prioritises peace over dominance. But, as the pace of diplomacy accelerates, it is important to recall that a lasting peace needs to be a just peace. And a just peace, a peace that allows for security in Europe to be restored, needs to be anchored in clear principles. First of all, Ukraine is a sovereign nation like any other nation in Europe. It must remain free to choose its alliances and its partnerships. Europe has consigned empires and zones of influence to the dustbin of history. And we will never allow for them to come to life again. Secondly, the future of European security cannot be discussed and decided without Europe. That is why the European Union, together with NATO and several European nations is playing its role in the ongoing diplomatic efforts. We are engaging as a team – side by side with our Ukrainian partners. The third principle concerns European security architecture. It is important to recall that Europe has an established European security architecture. Unfortunately, in the last decades Russia decided to undermine it by force. Culminating in the invasion of Ukraine. But we are determined to continue to uphold on the same fundamental principles that have been guiding the foreign policies of peaceful European nations for decades: - the sovereign equality between European nations
- refraining from the threat or use of force
- the inviolability of borders
- the territorial integrity of States
- the peaceful settlement of disputes
These principles of international law will continue to guide the European Union in any negotiations about peace in Ukraine and security in Europe. Once again, thank you, dear Micheál, for your warm hospitality and congratulations on a successful meeting! Et Monsieur le Président Parmelin, mes meilleurs vœux pour l’organisation de la prochaine édition de la Communauté politique européenne en Suisse. Thank you very much. | 
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